The Afton Town Council convened on April 8, 2025, to review updates from the Planning and Zoning Department, focusing on the town’s water resources amid ongoing growth and development.
During the meeting, concerns about water availability were highlighted, particularly in light of recent residential expansions. Utilities Director Josh Peavler remarked, “With the growth we’ve been seeing over the past few years, everyone asks me if there will be enough water with all the new subdivisions.”
Recent data indicated that Afton has maintained a stable water supply. In January 2025, the town recorded 62 million gallons, followed by 60 million in February and 63 million in March, with approximately 20 million gallons used each month, allowing excess water to overflow back into Swift Creek. The town has the capacity to provide water at a rate of 4,000 gallons per minute when the spring is not intermittent. Peavler noted, “Currently we don’t use the 2 wells at all; just one well produces 1,100 gallons a minute. However, as soon as we kick them on, it doesn’t let the spring flow into town.” To enhance the town’s capabilities, Peavler proposed a VFD (variable frequency drive) for the east alley well to replace the wells’ “soft start” system. The VFD will allow the well and the spring to work together. The council discussed the potential removal of the “soft start” mechanism and the installation of the “VFD” for the well system, which is estimated to cost around $30,000.
For the summer of 2024, data showed a significant increase in water availability, with 162 million gallons received in June and 56 million used. In July, 153 million gallons came in, with 80 million utilized, followed by August with 76 million incoming and 75 million used. This trend indicates that spring water availability peaks from June to August before gradually declining.
Peavler emphasized the importance of effectively monitoring the water system, stating, “We’re set up right now where we can monitor what is going in and out of our system really well.” However, it was noted that there are currently no water meters installed at parks and ball fields, highlighting an area for potential improvement.
Peavler pointed out that Afton’s water consumption levels are comparable to those of Idaho Falls, indicating that the community is using more water than necessary. Nevertheless, he assured residents that there is enough water to accommodate some growth. For emergency situations, the Town has 3 million gallons of storage available, ensuring access to water during unforeseen circumstances.
Additionally, Peavler updated the council on the sewer lagoon enhancement project. For better treatment, a new aeration system and additional cell are currently being added to the lagoon system. The new aeration will significantly eliminate the springtime “odor issues” in the area.
This information aims to instill confidence in residents that Afton is well-equipped to handle its growing population without compromising water quality or availability, while also encouraging awareness of individual water consumption.
